Lower extremity arterial air embolism secondary to clostridial gas gangrene - Diagnosis by Doppler sonography

Abstract

Introduction of air into the arterial system can result in air embolism. Most cases of arterial gas embolism (AGE) reported in the literature are iatrogenic, in which embolism is the result of an invasive medical procedure or surgery.(1) These include umbilical catheterization in neonates, the introduction of central venous lines, neurosurgical procedures, open heart surgery, and pulmonary barotrauma as a complication of ventilator therapy.(1) Arterial gas embolism may also be seen after diving as a result of pulmonary barotrauma or secondary to acute decompression.(1)